Young Americans have been coming to China for exchanges, part of an initiative launched in late 2023 with the goal of bringing 50,000 young Americans to the country over five years. That target was reached two and a half years ahead of schedule. 

But the significance of these exchanges goes beyond the numbers. What happens when young people from China and the US meet face-to-face? And what can these encounters shape the future of China-US relations?

Over the past few years, CGTN reporter Chen Yilin has followed several groups as they experienced China firsthand. In her reporting, three words emerged time and again, offering a glimpse into what these encounters can mean for young people on both sides. Here’s what they reveal about China-US youth exchanges.